A Call To Diversify

During COVID-19 when much of what we took for granted has been altered or questioned, T’ai Chi Chih has been a practice of stability. Justin’s emphasis on being grounded has given us a way to settle ourselves amidst great uncertainty. Most of us were motivated to become teachers so that we could share TCC’s benefits.

Many TCC teachers are white women of middle and older ages, which makes me wonder about its future. Will the next generation of teachers understand and appreciate the gift that Justin has given us? Will we continue to be a practice of white, middle-aged and older women? What would it take to offer this practice to young people, males, people of color? What are the consequences if we don’t?

Each issue of The Vital Force has included articles by teachers who have created ways to overcome barriers of distance, disability and now COVID-19. I am confident that the collective creativity of the TCC community will meet this challenge.

Some ideas for discussion:

• Schedule practice demonstrations at locations frequented by the groups we wish to reach, including community centers, churches, women’s groups. Whenever possible, the TCC representatives should be similar to the group we want to reach.

• Create DVDs and YouTube instructional materials, using teachers of diverse backgrounds. Ask our members who are male, young or people of color to make themselves available.

• Create a group of mentors, available through Zoom or FaceTime to work with and encourage individuals who are learning and refining the practice.

• Assemble financial resources to underwrite diversification efforts.

I am sure there are other strategies, and I hope there are teachers who want to engage in this effort. We are living in a most unusual and challenging time. Such times are often times of great creativity. Let us take this moment and share the treasure that is TCC. Comments? Suggestions? Offers of support?